A lab balance is a class of weight machine designed to measure small amounts of mass in the sub-milligram range. The measuring pan of an analytical balance (0.1 mg or better) is inside a transparent enclosure with doors so that dust does not collect and so any air currents in the room do not affect the operation of the lab balance. This enclosure is often called a draft shield. The use of a mechanically vented weight scale safety enclosure, which has uniquely designed acrylic airfoils, allows a smooth turbulence-free airflow that prevents balance fluctuation and the measure of mass down to 1 μg without fluctuations or loss of product. Also, the sample must be at room temperature to prevent natural convection from forming air currents inside the enclosure from causing an error in reading. Single pan mechanical substitution balance maintains consistent response throughout the useful capacity is achieved by maintaining a constant load on the balance beam, thus the fulcrum, by subtracting mass on the same side of the beam to which the sample is added.

An electronic analytical scale measures the force needed to counter the mass being measured rather than using actual masses. As such they must have calibration adjustments made to compensate for gravitational differences. They use an electromagnet to generate a force to counter the sample being measured and outputs the result by measuring the force needed to achieve equilibrium. This type of measurement device is called an electromagnetic force restoration sensor.

Methods & Types of Precision Weighing

A lab balance can be found in nearly every scientific setting throughout the world. Their ability to accurately measure weights and provide detailed data makes them indispensable tools. Below are some of the different types commonly found in laboratories.

Microbalances & Ultra Micro BalancesMicrobalances are designed to measure, weigh, and provide data on the tiniest of samples. Most models can effectively provide data for samples weighing between 6 and 0.0001 milligrams. These are generally used to weigh highly valuable substances in minute quantities. An ultra microbalance is designed to weigh and provide data on even smaller samples. These units typically come standard with draft shields so that dust and other foreign particles do not make their way into the dish and corrupt data and materials being worked on.

Automated Powder & Liquid DosingIn addition to the wide range of weight machine options, you can also incorporate automated add-ons in order to increase productivity, safety, and accuracy. Simple to configure autosamplers that are available enable unattended sample preparation. These autosamplers often times have both powder and liquid dosing capabilities which enable highly accurate concentrations, full traceability with barcodes, automatic data handling, and safe dosing, especially when handling hazardous substances.

Analytical Balances These are found throughout most laboratories. They are mostly used to weigh substances and samples between 0.01 to 500 milligrams. These units’ measuring pans are usually encased in a glass box so as to prevent any dust particles settling in the pan. The particles can often disrupt efficient testing and provide incorrect data if they should settle in the pan.

Precision Balances This class is designed for reliable and high-precision weighing in both the lab and under harsh industrial conditions. They typically include fast stabilization times, optimized linearity, repeatability specifications, and enhanced vibration filtering.

Moisture AnalyzerA moisture balance is perfect for measuring moisture in most products including grains, pharmaceuticals, soils, sludge, and chemicals. The amount of moisture in a product can greatly affect perceived quality. These instruments are used to measure the original weight of a product before the drying process. The machine takes note of that weight and then after the drying process, it notates the decrease in moisture and shows the weight change on the moisture analyzer display. Heating lamps are sometimes used to speed up the drying process. Ceramic heating elements are designed to rapidly attain the final temperature to ensure a uniform distribution of heat over the entire surface, thus eliminating localized burning of the sample. Halogen lamp heating elements are suited for applications that require accelerated temperature regulation during sample drying. However, halogen lamps heat and cool quickly sometimes causing the sample to scorch. A moisture analyzer can also use quartz heating elements, which looks similar to the heating element in your oven at home. Heat is transferred from a coil wire to a material which distributes the heat providing consistent heating.

Gold and Carat Balances As the name implies, these scales are designed to weigh gold as well as give carat values. These are more commonly found in jewelry design workshops and retail jeweler outlets, however, they are used in some laboratory exercises too. These units are not limited to weighing gold; they are also commonly used to measure and provide carat values for both precious and semiprecious stones and metals.

An Ultra Microbalance That Suits Your Needs

Operating Lease

This off-balance sheet financing structure provides three options at the end of the term. The lessee has the option to return the equipment to the lessor, renew at a discounted rate, or purchase the instrument for the fair market value. Monthly payments are also 100% tax deductible which yields additional cash savings.

Sale Leaseback

If you recently purchased equipment, Excedr can offer you cash for your instrument and convert your purchase into a long-term rental. This is called a sale leaseback. If you’ve paid for equipment within the last ninety days, we can help you recoup your investment and allow you to make low monthly payments. This also frees up cash in your budget rather than tying it down to the instrument.

Effect on Credit & Operating Capital

Leasing/renting does not hinder your future borrowing ability and allows you to keep your business credit line open for expansions, staffing, and other operational expenses. Additionally, it strengthens the cash flow of your business and keeps cash reserves free for business development opportunities.

Used Equipment

Unlike traditional financing and leasing companies, the Excedr program can accommodate refurbished / reconditioned equipment in addition to demo units. If you are looking for additional cost-savings, we recommend considering this option.

Speed of Approval

Excedr’s program allows you to respond quickly as your need for equipment and technology arises. You can be approved with minimal documentation and have the equipment you need in operation and generating revenue for your business quickly.